Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Hercules 20V Brushless Cordless Drill/Driver Kit (Harbor Freight)
Best Budget BrushlessMilwaukee M18 FUEL 18V Brushless Drill/Driver
Best OverallPrice
$60-$90
$179-$280
Summary
Consumer Reports named this Harbor Freight brushless drill the top-rated cordless drill in their 2025 issue — a stunning result for a budget tool. It delivers brushless performance at a price that undercuts every major brand.
The M18 FUEL is the drill professionals and serious DIYers reach for first. Brushless motor, 500 in-lbs max torque, and a 5-year warranty make it the most capable 18V drill you can buy.
Pros
- Rated #1 cordless drill by Consumer Reports in their Nov/Dec 2025 issue
- Brushless motor for better efficiency and longer tool life than brushed budget drills
- Significantly cheaper than Milwaukee, DeWalt, or Makita brushless options
- Includes side handle for added control on demanding tasks
- 2Ah battery and charger included in kit
- Brushless motor delivers longer runtime and more power than brushed competitors
- 500 in-lbs max torque — highest in its class per CNET testing
- Industry-leading 5-year tool warranty, 2-year battery warranty
- M18 battery platform compatible with 100+ Milwaukee tools
- Compact design fits tight spaces despite 18V power
Cons
- Harbor Freight brand lacks the long-term reputation of Milwaukee or DeWalt
- Battery ecosystem limited compared to major brands with 300+ compatible tools
- Less widely available — requires Harbor Freight store or website purchase
- Long-term durability data less established than established brands
- Most expensive option on this list
- 1.5Ah batteries included in base kit are smaller capacity
- Overkill for light household tasks like furniture assembly
Our take
This is the sleeper pick nobody expects. Consumer Reports doesn't hand out top ratings lightly, and the fact that this beat Milwaukee and DeWalt in their testing is genuinely remarkable. If you're budget-conscious and don't need brand prestige, this is the smartest buy on the list.
If you're going to invest in one drill that lasts a decade, this is it. Milwaukee's FUEL line is what tradespeople actually use daily — the brushless motor and build quality are in a different league from budget options.
Buy
